| This article provides a general coverage of political decisions in China to undertake, continue and extend its economic reforms and its goal of opening up to the outside world. It also considers the consequences of Chinese policies. The period leading up to the decision in 1978 to begin the reforms is considered first, particularly the period beginning in 1976, the year in which Zhou Enlai and Mao Zedong died and the Gang of Four were arrested. Hu Guofeng succeeded Mao Zedong a Chairman of the CCP but did not propose any new ways forward for China. By 1978, however, Deng Xiaoping was able to exert substantial influence on the policy choices of the CCP. As discussed, the 3rd Plenary Session of the 11th Central Committee of the CCP held in 1978 adopted his... |
